The European Union, in a statement delivered at the OSCE Permanent Council on 11 June 2026, condemned Russia's deliberate intensification of strikes against civilians and civilian infrastructure in Ukraine, and demanded the immediate release of all unlawfully detained civilians, including Ukrainian journalists and three OSCE staff members. The statement, published by the EEAS on 15 June 2026, also called on all countries to cease assistance to Russia's war effort and warned that the conflict is increasingly spilling over into EU territory, citing a drone explosion in the Romanian port of Constanța.
The EU reiterated its unwavering solidarity with Ukraine and its commitment to Ukraine's independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. It announced plans to intensify pressure on Russia, including through additional sanctions, and to contribute to robust security guarantees for Ukraine. The statement strongly condemned the deployment of DPRK military forces and continued military support from Iran, Belarus, and the DPRK.
Journalists and media actors were highlighted as essential for documenting violations of international law. The EU noted that at least 149 media actors have been killed since the full-scale invasion, with around 30 Ukrainian journalists remaining in Russian captivity. It demanded the immediate release of Viktoriia Roshchyna, who died in Russian captivity, and all other detained journalists, as well as the safe return of deported Ukrainian children.
The EU acknowledged the work of the OSCE's Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) and Human Dimension Mechanisms in supporting accountability efforts. The statement was endorsed by Albania, Andorra, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Georgia, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Republic of Moldova, Monaco, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Norway, San Marino, and Ukraine.
Impact on stakeholders: The statement reinforces diplomatic pressure on Russia, potentially leading to further EU sanctions that could affect Russian energy exports and dual-use goods trade. For Ukraine, it signals continued Western support but no immediate military escalation. EU member states bordering Russia or Ukraine face heightened security risks, as highlighted by the Constanța incident. Journalists and media actors in conflict zones gain renewed international attention but remain vulnerable without concrete protection mechanisms.